Skip the tourist restaurants. What do Shenzhen locals eat for breakfast? Who makes the most authentic Chaoshan Cuisine? This list of 10 eateries covers breakfast to midnight snacks — the real flavors of Shenzhen.
Breakfast: Chaoshan Cuisine is Shenzhen locals' soul food. Try the old spots near 福田, 15-30 RMB/person. Lunch: Local restaurants — order Chaoshan Cuisine and seasonal vegetables, 50-80 RMB/person. Dinner: Chaoshan Cuisine veteran near 南山, 80-150 RMB/person. Late night: BBQ stalls near 罗湖, 30-50 RMB/person.
10 recommended spots: ① 福田 old Chaoshan Cuisine (20-year veteran); ② 南山 trendy Chaoshan Cuisine (good ambiance); ③ 罗湖 hole-in-the-wall (most authentic); ④ Farmhouse near 世界之窗; ⑤ Seafood/river fish near 大梅沙; ⑥ 移民文化-themed restaurant; ⑦ Local breakfast joint; ⑧ Night market BBQ; ⑨ Dessert old shop; ⑩ Souvenir shop. Budget: a full day of eating ~200-400 RMB/person.